In the final months of 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the release of a new eye drop medication that could replace glasses, potentially helping 128 million Americans who struggle with near vision to achieve clearer sight.
The pharmaceutical company claims that the drug, named Vuity, will take effect within just 15 minutes, and each drop will provide sharp vision for 6 to 10 hours. It is an effective remedy against presbyopia, a condition that commonly affects individuals over the age of 40.
This medication takes effect within just 15 minutes.
The FDA granted approval for Vuity in October following a successful trial phase. Toni Wright, one of the 750 participants in the trial, expressed her delight with the results she experienced.
“It truly is a life-changing medication for me,” Mrs. Wright told the press. Before the trial, her eyesight was so poor that she had to keep glasses in various places—at the office, in the bathroom, in the kitchen, and in the car. “I refuse to accept the reality that the signs of aging, as you know, mean having to wear glasses.”
In 2019, doctors introduced Mrs. Wright to this new eye drop medication that could treat age-related vision loss. According to the doctors, the medication leverages the eye’s natural ability to adjust pupil size.
The medication is most effective for patients aged 40-50
“Reducing pupil size increases the depth of field or focus depth of the eye, allowing you to naturally focus on different distances,” said George Waring, the director of the Vuity drug trial project.
A 30-day prescription will cost around $80, and the medication is most effective for patients aged 40-50. During the three-month trial, doctors noted side effects including headaches and eye redness.
“This is something we believe will be acceptable after long-term use of the medication, but certainly, this is an aspect that will be evaluated and studied appropriately,” Mr. Waring affirmed.
Vuity is not a perfect solution for vision problems. Additionally, the manufacturers warn against using the medication while driving at night, as well as against abusing it to force the eyes to work in low-light conditions. Vuity will be most effective for those with mild to moderate vision loss and will be less effective for patients over the age of 65. Side effects may also include difficulty focusing on objects both near and far.
Nevertheless, Mrs. Wright remains largely satisfied with the convenience that Vuity offers. With just a bottle of eye drops, she has bypassed the hassle of glasses and can move around comfortably. Vuity brings hope to millions like Wright, individuals who are facing vision issues that significantly reduce their quality of life.
